In the fast-evolving world of cybersecurity, older adults are increasingly falling victim to cybercrime, a trend that is concerning for many experts in the field. Jordan Reid, the co-founder of SENGUARD, an internet security service based in Glasgow, has a personal connection to this issue. His inspiration to start the company came from his grandfather’s experience with a ransomware attack that not only resulted in financial loss but also took away his confidence and independence in using technology.
The growing problem of cyberattacks targeting older adults is an issue that has been overlooked, despite the fact that this demographic controls a significant portion of wealth in the UK. Conventional cybersecurity solutions have focused more on businesses rather than individual users, prompting Reid and his team at SENGUARD to create a solution that not only prevents financial loss but also restores confidence and independence for older adults.
Convincing investors and partners of the necessity of cybersecurity for older adults was a challenge that Reid and his team had to overcome. By presenting compelling statistics and real-world stories, they were able to shed light on the severity of the issue. Winning funding from Scottish EDGE was a turning point for SENGUARD, as it not only provided capital for product development but also opened doors to partnerships and pilot programs across the UK.
Despite the success SENGUARD has achieved, Reid acknowledges that running a startup is not without its setbacks. Learning from early mistakes and being willing to pivot and adapt to user preferences has been crucial for the company’s growth. Reid emphasizes the importance of solving real problems for a specific audience and remaining focused on execution to achieve success in the competitive cybersecurity industry.
Staying motivated in the high-stakes world of cybersecurity entrepreneurship can be challenging, but Reid draws inspiration from the people SENGUARD protects. Surrounding oneself with a strong team and advisors, like-minded co-founders, and maintaining perspective during tough times are essential for navigating the emotional challenges of entrepreneurship. Looking ahead, Reid remains optimistic about SENGUARD’s trajectory and the future of cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking and staying focused on key priorities.
In an industry where cyber threats are constantly evolving, innovative solutions like those offered by SENGUARD are more important than ever. For Reid and his team, success is not only about acquiring users but about protecting lives and making a positive impact on the cybersecurity landscape.